1. With an electric mixer (use paddle attachment if using an upright model...) mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. Add the sugar and oil. Mix to combine. Add the eggs- one at a time- mixing well after each addition. Scrape down sides of the bowl.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together dry ingredients. Add to the wet ingredients in three batches, mixing after each addition.

3. Pour batter into the prepared Bundt pan and bake for 1 hour or until a wooden skewer comes out clean. Allow to cool 20 minutes before removing from pan, and inverting onto a rack or serving dish.

4. Meanwhile, prepare glaze. Combine orange juice, rum, sugar, and cinnamon sticks in a small saucepan. Bring to simmer over low heat and reduce by half. Remove from heat, and allow to cool about 10 minutes before glazing.

5. Using a pastry brush, glaze generously over the still-warm bread. Wait 10 minutes before glazing again. (We had a hard time waiting!!!)

Serve at room temperature. Sweet potato bread keeps well, wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to three days. (Even better the next day... if it lasts that long!) The recipe says that you can also freeze if it is wrapped in plastic wrap and then in foil, for up to three weeks.

My Mom, Jackie Bailey Carman

Introduction

Five years ago, my mother passed away. Even though she was sick, her death was unexpected. She, like I loved to cook. She subscribed to a variety of cooking magazines, religiously clipped gems from the Wednesday newspaper, and swapped recipes with her friends. Over the years, her repertoire and recipe box grew.

Upon her passing, I became guardian of her collection. Her recipe box now filled with family favorites, and memories. Some of the recipes, I know by heart. Some I only remember having the dishes on special occasions, made the way mom made them.

To honor her, my greatest teacher, supporter, and inspiration I want to share her legacy with my memories. I will try to give credit to the original recipe owner, when I can. Many of these have been passed around and I am not sure where they came from, but I will do my best. More importantly, for me, are the memories that each of these hold.